Today we’d like to introduce you to Branden Leay.
Hi Branden Leay, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve been placemaking since I was a kid. My family moved often, and every time we landed somewhere new, I found comfort in curating my little corners, and finding ways to make unfamiliar spaces feel like home. I didn’t have the words for it then, but I was already doing the work I now do professionally—creating environments that speak to identity, comfort, and belonging.
That instinct led me to study urban design in Kansas City, where I was drawn to the intersection of how people move through cities and how interior space shapes daily life. Over the last 20 years, I’ve bought, renovated, and sold homes—bringing tired or forgotten spaces back to life. It’s always been about storytelling through design—honoring a building’s character while layering in bold, personal, and unexpected details.
Today, as the founder of St. City Design, I merge that lifelong love of placemaking with my experience in real estate, renovation, and interior styling. Whether I’m transforming a short-term rental, designing a client’s dream kitchen, or staging a home for market, the goal is always the same: to make beauty feel inevitable and comfort feel custom.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Not at all. I’ve always had a deep need for stability—both professionally and financially—which led me into the public sector. For over 15 years, I built a solid career in government, and while it provided a sense of security and purpose for a time, it didn’t feed my soul. I spent years quietly burning out, knowing I had more to give creatively but feeling unsure how to pivot.
The turning point came through the support of my husband, who has always believed in my talent—even when I didn’t. He gently (and sometimes not-so-gently) pushed me to pursue the work that genuinely fulfills me. He has made this transition easy and natural.
As you know, we’re big fans of St. City Design. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
St. City Design is a full-service interior design studio focused on renovation, staging, and styling. I work with homeowners, investors, and short-term rental hosts to transform spaces into something visually compelling, emotionally resonant, and highly functional. Every project is rooted in architectural respect and a curated, intentional aesthetic.
What sets my work apart is my instinct-driven approach. I don’t apply a formula—I respond to the space and the people it serves. I’m known for blending vintage and contemporary elements, integrating bold color, and styling with pieces that create a sense of history and impact. Clients come to me because they want something layered, lived-in, and elevated—but never overdone.
I’m most proud of the way people respond to the spaces I design. Whether it’s a kitchen remodel, a short-term rental refresh, or staging for resale, I want the final result to stop you mid-step. Good design should stir something in you—and I aim for that every time.
St. City Design currently offers renovations and remodels, short-term rental design packages, home staging, and sourcing for curated decor. No matter the size or scope, I treat every project like it deserves to be unforgettable.
What were you like growing up?
I was ever-evolving. As an only child, I lived a lot in my imagination—quiet, observant, and tuned in to how people felt. I a lot of ways, I was pretty average. I didn’t stand out much, and I didn’t try to. I just had this deep, internal sense that my childhood was temporary—that my real life would begin once I could get out into the world and make something of it.
Even then, I felt destined for great things. I have always carried that belief and that quiet drive with me. I’ve always had a strong emotional compass and a natural ability to understand people, which now feeds directly into my creative work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stcitydesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/st.city.design.by.branden/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandenleayc
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@st.city.design.bybranden?lang=en
